On November 28, millions of families in the United States will gather for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner to give thanks. This family gathering, dedicated to gratitude for the blessings and good actions received throughout the year, is one of the most anticipated celebrations for Americans. The unique feature of this intimate gathering is the menu, starring roasted turkey, accompanied by cranberry sauce, sweet potato mash, green beans, and Brussels sprouts. For dessert, cornbread and pumpkin or apple pie are usually served.
On this day, mothers and grandmothers gather in the kitchen to prepare the long-awaited feast, attended by all members of the family clan.
However, Thanksgiving is also infamously known as the day with the highest number of house fires in the United States: approximately 1,610, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
On this day, home fires increase by 297% compared to an average day.
To prevent this special celebration from turning into a tragedy, it’s essential to follow some recommendations:
Kitchen Safety
- Don’t leave the kitchen unattended: If you’re cooking, stay near the stove and avoid distractions like playing, dancing, or chatting away from the cooking area.
- Avoid leaving the oven on while out of the house: If you need to make last-minute purchases, ensure someone responsible is supervising the oven.
Keep Children Away from the Kitchen One of the most beautiful moments of Thanksgiving is the arrival of children, filling the house with laughter and play. However, the kitchen—with its active burners and hot utensils—can be a dangerous place. Keep children out of this area.
Deep-Frying the Turkey: Delicious but Risky A popular technique for preparing turkey is deep-frying it in hot oil. While delicious, it also involves certain risks:
- Always outdoors: Use the fryer in an open space on a stable wooden platform.
- Constant supervision: Ensure an adult is monitoring the fryer and restrict children’s access to the area.
- Measure the oil: Before cooking, measure the necessary oil by placing the cold turkey in the empty fryer and adding water until it’s covered with a two-inch margin. That amount of water equals the oil volume needed.
- Fully thaw the turkey: Ensure the turkey is completely thawed before immersing it in hot oil.
- Lower the turkey slowly: Submerge it gradually to avoid oil overflow.
- Extinguisher on hand: Keep a fire extinguisher nearby for safety.
By following these simple recommendations, you can enjoy a safe and memorable Thanksgiving.
If, despite all precautions, you experience a fire on your property, remember that your home insurance can cover the damages.
Happy Thanksgiving!